Courtesy McPherson High School Athletic Department

McPherson HS held our 4th and final signing day.&nbsp; The following athletes participated.&nbsp; Photos are attached. Leland Hept, Central Christian College, undecided major, soccer Hunter Mendez, Central Christian College, Criminal Justice, soccer Cory Muehler, Hutchinson Community College, Architecture, basketball Kyden Thompson, Cowley College, Business/Graphic Design, basketball

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714664022911.jpeg" alt="USD 418" />
 <figcaption>USD 418</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy McPherson High School Athletic DepartmentMcPherson HS held our 4th and final signing day.&nbsp; The following athletes participated.&nbsp; Photos are attached. Leland Hept, Central Christian College, undecided major, soccer Hunter Mendez, Central Christian College, Criminal Justice, soccer Cory Muehler, Hutchinson Community College, Architecture, basketball Kyden Thompson, Cowley College, Business/Graphic Design, basketball<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714663894414.jpeg" alt="Leland Hept (McPherson High School Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Leland Hept (McPherson High School Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714663912701.jpeg" alt="Hunter Mendez (McPherson High School Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Hunter Mendez (McPherson High School Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714663928523.jpeg" alt="Cory Muehler (McPherson High School Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Cory Muehler (McPherson High School Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714663945889.jpeg" alt="Kyden Thompson (McPherson High School Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kyden Thompson (McPherson High School Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>

⚽🏀 4 Bullpups sign Wednesday to further academic and athletic careers

Connie loved family and people in general, especially children, and dogs. She loved to travel, visiting 40 U.S. states and 25 foreign countries and islands. Constance Joan Carman, age 87, of Thousand Oaks, California died at home of Congestive Heart Failure on April 20, 2024 in Hospice care.

She was born in Hutchinson, Kansas in 1936 to Charles Robert and Mildred Welty, who were very loving farm people. She was surrounded with three generations of Weltys locally and many more relatives within Kansas. As a young girl she was a tomboy, but outgrew this trait. When her bother, Steven Robert Welty came along in 1945, a lifelong close bond was formed that was very dependable until his death in November 2020. His death had a very strong and lasting impact on Connie and her will to live. Her love of animals came from her farm experiences. Connie attended High School in Nickerson, Kansas from 1950-1954 before studying Elementary School Education at Fort Hays State College in Kansas, graduating in 1958. She became a public-school teacher in 1958, teaching in Prosperity Grade School in Hutchinson, Kansas. She moved to Los Alamos, New Mexico in the early 1960s and did teaching there as well. She loved Los Alamos and developed many long-term friendships there. She also looked forward to driving back to Kansas to see her family.

While previously married Connie met the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Carman in 1974 at a Parents-without-Partners (PWP) meeting in Los Alamos, in which Connie was the president. Quickly Connie and Bob bonded, becoming soul mates in which they could sit quietly next to each other and without speaking and know what the other was thinking. They were married in the United Methodist Church in Los Alamos on May 2, 1975. &nbsp;She died just two weeks short of 49 years. They lived the beginning of their marriage in White, Rock, NM until April 1984 when they moved to Thousand Oaks, CA. Connie loved living in California and in the specific house we had, as long as she could visit her family in Kansas.

Connie and Bob both had daughters from a previous marriage. &nbsp;Connie’s daughter was Jennifer Lynn Bivins Gillespie, 1964, and she lived with Connie and Bob until she went to college in 1982. &nbsp;Connie and Jennifer enjoyed clothes shopping and going out for lunch where Connie typically ordered lox and bagels as often as she could. &nbsp;Connie and Jennifer also enjoyed grocery shopping and cooking meals together. &nbsp;They attended church together at the United Methodist Church in Los Alamos. &nbsp;Connie loved to sew and even made Jennifer a pink ice-skating dress which Jennifer loved to wear to the skating rink. &nbsp;They made many trips to the farm in Hutchinson, Kansas and loved the time they spent with their family there.

Bob’s daughter, Yvonne Norris Carman Novak, 1968, lived with her mother during the school years and with Connie and Bob during the summers. Both girls traveled with them on summer trips. Yvonne and Connie had lots of belly laughs over the years whether it was going shopping which was one of their favorite things to do. They always said when the going gets tough the tough go shopping. Cuddles, our dog, came into our lives in 1978 and she loved going everywhere, including shopping. Connie and Yvonne enjoyed doing ceramics and Yvonne helped with Connie’s cosmetic business.

Connie’s love of children certainly extended to her grandchildren. Jennifer had three children, Kyle Alan Olcott (1990), and Krista Lynn Levin (1992) as well as Jack Bivins Gillespie (2002). Connie always wanted to be with her grandkids, but they lived a long ways away, so time together was limited. Fortunately, Jennifer and her three children visited us the end of February, so Connie got to enjoy being with them again.

Connie’s face and heart would light up whenever she was around a dog. Connie’s love of animals from farm days translated into owning non-allergenic dogs – usually poodles due to her asthma. When Bob first met Connie, she had two poodles, Lulu and Doris. Once they passed, about 1978, a cockapoo named Cuddles came along. Cuddles was truly like having a little piece of God with you every day. After Cuddles passed in 1998, there were no dogs until 2002 when friends, Debbie Harris and Lars Gustafson, went to Las Vegas with Connie and Bob to buy a dog. &nbsp;Her name is Precious and she lives up to that name. &nbsp;She is a Maltese/Poodle cross, about 7 lbs. of love. &nbsp;She actually is smaller than most cats. While Precious was Bob’s birthday present to Connie, Precious has been care for by Bob and has become Bob’s dog.

Connie had friends everywhere she went. &nbsp;In high school, she had an English pen friend. &nbsp;They continued writing until her English friend died, and they got together several times both here at theit home or in England. &nbsp;Connie was a member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority when Bob met her and even after the sorority stopped functioning, Connie always maintained contact with the members. &nbsp;To have a relationship with Connie always meant for Life. She used to mail out about 200 Christmas Newsletters each year and they were 8-10 pages long.

Connie and Bob had many parties celebrating friends and family throughout their lives together. There are many stories. One of them was the time Bob wanted to do a surprise party for Connie’s Birthday and did a dinner murder mystery. We told Connie a fib that Glenn Harrington, Yvonne’s first husband and Yvonne couldn’t make her birthday that year. Bob had all 8 guesses dress up to their assigned player description. It took place in the 1900’s. For Connie we put her costume in a trunk and after we yelled surprise we had her open the trunk and put on these clothes. The look of joy and surprise was something Yvonne will always remember. Connie would joke about that for years.&nbsp;

One of the best things Our Immediate family credits Connie for is bringing us closer to God. We went to church like so many do but it was Connie’s way of helping us through so many of life’s difficult moments that grew all of our beliefs. I believe one day we will all be together again and till then as the song goes &nbsp; “will see you again, This is not where it ends I will carry you with me, 'Til I see you again”

Graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5905 W 4th Ave, Hutchinson, with the Rev. Mike Rose officiating.&nbsp; Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N.&nbsp; Main, Hutchinson, is in charge of arrangements.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714662285492.jpeg" alt="Constance 'Connie' Joan Carman " />
 <figcaption>Constance 'Connie' Joan Carman </figcaption>
 </figure>Connie loved family and people in general, especially children, and dogs. She loved to travel, visiting 40 U.S. states and 25 foreign countries and islands. Constance Joan Carman, age 87, of Thousand Oaks, California died at home of Congestive Heart Failure on April 20, 2024 in Hospice care.She was born in Hutchinson, Kansas in 1936 to Charles Robert and Mildred Welty, who were very loving farm people. She was surrounded with three generations of Weltys locally and many more relatives within Kansas. As a young girl she was a tomboy, but outgrew this trait. When her bother, Steven Robert Welty came along in 1945, a lifelong close bond was formed that was very dependable until his death in November 2020. His death had a very strong and lasting impact on Connie and her will to live. Her love of animals came from her farm experiences. Connie attended High School in Nickerson, Kansas from 1950-1954 before studying Elementary School Education at Fort Hays State College in Kansas, graduating in 1958. She became a public-school teacher in 1958, teaching in Prosperity Grade School in Hutchinson, Kansas. She moved to Los Alamos, New Mexico in the early 1960s and did teaching there as well. She loved Los Alamos and developed many long-term friendships there. She also looked forward to driving back to Kansas to see her family.While previously married Connie met the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Carman in 1974 at a Parents-without-Partners (PWP) meeting in Los Alamos, in which Connie was the president. Quickly Connie and Bob bonded, becoming soul mates in which they could sit quietly next to each other and without speaking and know what the other was thinking. They were married in the United Methodist Church in Los Alamos on May 2, 1975. &nbsp;She died just two weeks short of 49 years. They lived the beginning of their marriage in White, Rock, NM until April 1984 when they moved to Thousand Oaks, CA. Connie loved living in California and in the specific house we had, as long as she could visit her family in Kansas.Connie and Bob both had daughters from a previous marriage. &nbsp;Connie’s daughter was Jennifer Lynn Bivins Gillespie, 1964, and she lived with Connie and Bob until she went to college in 1982. &nbsp;Connie and Jennifer enjoyed clothes shopping and going out for lunch where Connie typically ordered lox and bagels as often as she could. &nbsp;Connie and Jennifer also enjoyed grocery shopping and cooking meals together. &nbsp;They attended church together at the United Methodist Church in Los Alamos. &nbsp;Connie loved to sew and even made Jennifer a pink ice-skating dress which Jennifer loved to wear to the skating rink. &nbsp;They made many trips to the farm in Hutchinson, Kansas and loved the time they spent with their family there.Bob’s daughter, Yvonne Norris Carman Novak, 1968, lived with her mother during the school years and with Connie and Bob during the summers. Both girls traveled with them on summer trips. Yvonne and Connie had lots of belly laughs over the years whether it was going shopping which was one of their favorite things to do. They always said when the going gets tough the tough go shopping. Cuddles, our dog, came into our lives in 1978 and she loved going everywhere, including shopping. Connie and Yvonne enjoyed doing ceramics and Yvonne helped with Connie’s cosmetic business.Connie’s love of children certainly extended to her grandchildren. Jennifer had three children, Kyle Alan Olcott (1990), and Krista Lynn Levin (1992) as well as Jack Bivins Gillespie (2002). Connie always wanted to be with her grandkids, but they lived a long ways away, so time together was limited. Fortunately, Jennifer and her three children visited us the end of February, so Connie got to enjoy being with them again.Connie’s face and heart would light up whenever she was around a dog. Connie’s love of animals from farm days translated into owning non-allergenic dogs – usually poodles due to her asthma. When Bob first met Connie, she had two poodles, Lulu and Doris. Once they passed, about 1978, a cockapoo named Cuddles came along. Cuddles was truly like having a little piece of God with you every day. After Cuddles passed in 1998, there were no dogs until 2002 when friends, Debbie Harris and Lars Gustafson, went to Las Vegas with Connie and Bob to buy a dog. &nbsp;Her name is Precious and she lives up to that name. &nbsp;She is a Maltese/Poodle cross, about 7 lbs. of love. &nbsp;She actually is smaller than most cats. While Precious was Bob’s birthday present to Connie, Precious has been care for by Bob and has become Bob’s dog.Connie had friends everywhere she went. &nbsp;In high school, she had an English pen friend. &nbsp;They continued writing until her English friend died, and they got together several times both here at theit home or in England. &nbsp;Connie was a member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority when Bob met her and even after the sorority stopped functioning, Connie always maintained contact with the members. &nbsp;To have a relationship with Connie always meant for Life. She used to mail out about 200 Christmas Newsletters each year and they were 8-10 pages long.Connie and Bob had many parties celebrating friends and family throughout their lives together. There are many stories. One of them was the time Bob wanted to do a surprise party for Connie’s Birthday and did a dinner murder mystery. We told Connie a fib that Glenn Harrington, Yvonne’s first husband and Yvonne couldn’t make her birthday that year. Bob had all 8 guesses dress up to their assigned player description. It took place in the 1900’s. For Connie we put her costume in a trunk and after we yelled surprise we had her open the trunk and put on these clothes. The look of joy and surprise was something Yvonne will always remember. Connie would joke about that for years.&nbsp;One of the best things Our Immediate family credits Connie for is bringing us closer to God. We went to church like so many do but it was Connie’s way of helping us through so many of life’s difficult moments that grew all of our beliefs. I believe one day we will all be together again and till then as the song goes &nbsp; “will see you again, This is not where it ends I will carry you with me, 'Til I see you again”Graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5905 W 4th Ave, Hutchinson, with the Rev. Mike Rose officiating.&nbsp; Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N.&nbsp; Main, Hutchinson, is in charge of arrangements.&nbsp;

Constance ‘Connie’ Joan Carman |1936-2024|

Dennis Dean Carlson, 68, of McPherson, KS, passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.

Dennis was born on July 7, 1955, in McPherson, KS, the son of Robert Dean and Betty Jean (Becker) Carlson.&nbsp; He graduated from McPherson High School in 1973 and continued his education studying Electrical Engineering at Hutchinson Community College and Mechanical Engineering at Kansas State University.&nbsp; He studied Business and received a Bachelor Degree at Central Christian College of Kansas. On August 12, 1995, Dennis was united in marriage to Sherill Anne (James) Newberry at the First Baptist Church in McPherson.

While working at CertainTeed, he was awarded 11 U.S. patents. Dennis was a former Engineering Manager at Eaton Corporation and Maintenance Manager/Superintendent at Westlake Corporation. He retired from Stryten in Salina as Maintenance Manager. Dennis was also a part owner of a plastic extrusion company in Lamar, MO.

He was a lifetime member of the First Baptist Church and member of Band of Brothers and Huddle 4 Men. He was a prior member of the Lions Club. Dennis also served on the advisory board of the Salina Area Technical School.

Survivors include his loving wife, Sherill of the home; children, Robert Newberry and Brenda Newberry, both of McPherson, KS, Kelly Carlson-Nicola (Chris) of Coyville, KS, Melissa Newberry of Leavenworth, KS, and Tara Flores (Israel) of Sugar Land, TX; a sister, Diane Rhea (Terry) of Phoenix, AZ; nine grandchildren, Audrey Miller, Sarah Newberry, Brian Patrick, Layne Patrick, Cole Carlson, Madison Stroud, Aiden Allen, Mason Flores, and Liam Flores; one great-grandchild; and numerous extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Steven Carlson; daughter, Amy Carlson; and grandson, Caleb Newberry.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Monday, May 6, 2024, at Stockham Family Funeral Home.&nbsp; The funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM, Tuesday, May 7, at the First Baptist Church with Rev. John Pattison and Rev. Melissa Newberry officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow at McPherson Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be given to the First Baptist Church or Victory Village Christian Academy in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.

Personal condolences may be sent to the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stockhamfamily.com/" target="_blank">www.stockhamfamily.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714641809636.jpeg" alt="Dennis Dean Carlson" />
 <figcaption>Dennis Dean Carlson</figcaption>
 </figure>Dennis Dean Carlson, 68, of McPherson, KS, passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.Dennis was born on July 7, 1955, in McPherson, KS, the son of Robert Dean and Betty Jean (Becker) Carlson.&nbsp; He graduated from McPherson High School in 1973 and continued his education studying Electrical Engineering at Hutchinson Community College and Mechanical Engineering at Kansas State University.&nbsp; He studied Business and received a Bachelor Degree at Central Christian College of Kansas. On August 12, 1995, Dennis was united in marriage to Sherill Anne (James) Newberry at the First Baptist Church in McPherson.While working at CertainTeed, he was awarded 11 U.S. patents. Dennis was a former Engineering Manager at Eaton Corporation and Maintenance Manager/Superintendent at Westlake Corporation. He retired from Stryten in Salina as Maintenance Manager. Dennis was also a part owner of a plastic extrusion company in Lamar, MO.He was a lifetime member of the First Baptist Church and member of Band of Brothers and Huddle 4 Men. He was a prior member of the Lions Club. Dennis also served on the advisory board of the Salina Area Technical School.Survivors include his loving wife, Sherill of the home; children, Robert Newberry and Brenda Newberry, both of McPherson, KS, Kelly Carlson-Nicola (Chris) of Coyville, KS, Melissa Newberry of Leavenworth, KS, and Tara Flores (Israel) of Sugar Land, TX; a sister, Diane Rhea (Terry) of Phoenix, AZ; nine grandchildren, Audrey Miller, Sarah Newberry, Brian Patrick, Layne Patrick, Cole Carlson, Madison Stroud, Aiden Allen, Mason Flores, and Liam Flores; one great-grandchild; and numerous extended family members and friends.He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Steven Carlson; daughter, Amy Carlson; and grandson, Caleb Newberry.The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Monday, May 6, 2024, at Stockham Family Funeral Home.&nbsp; The funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM, Tuesday, May 7, at the First Baptist Church with Rev. John Pattison and Rev. Melissa Newberry officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow at McPherson Cemetery.Memorial donations may be given to the First Baptist Church or Victory Village Christian Academy in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.Personal condolences may be sent to the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stockhamfamily.com/" target="_blank">www.stockhamfamily.com</a>.

Dennis Dean Carlson |1955-2024|

&nbsp;HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two outstanding Hutchinson Community College students were recognized as the 2024 Young Kansan Award winners at a ceremony on campus on May 1. The students will also be honored during the College’s commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 3.

Megan Ratzlaff (Buhler) and Ellie Van Zelfden (Valley Center) were selected from a field of students nominated for the honor. The Young Kansan award recognizes two outstanding graduates each year at Hutchinson Community College, and is chosen by a vote of the faculty and administration at the college.

The award is sponsored by RCB Bank. Each winner received a plaque and a cash honorarium in recognition of their achievements.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5783661b-d14d-4456-b7af-4d0d368bdeeb">Megan</a> has served in officer positions for the Phi Theta Kappa Kappa Gamma Chapter as well as the Hutchinson Community College’s Honors Program’s Honors Student Council and Cru (Campus Crusade for Christ).

Megan is one of 459 community college students nationwide who were named semi-finalists in the 2024 Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship competition. She is the only student listed for the state of Kansas who will advance to the finalist round. In addition to this, she is one of 150 community college students nationwide who were named to the 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team. After graduation, Megan will attend Sterling College majoring in Political Science &amp; History.

Ellie is a tutor for Rimmer Learning Resource Center. From one of her nominators: “She is responsible, caring, and willing to go the extra mile for anyone who comes in for help. Every time I see her in a conversation on campus she is engaged and truly sees value in the person.

Ellie is an outstanding young Kansan who has an amazing future ahead of her.” Ellie is also a member of the HutchCC track team. After graduation, she plans to attend Fort Hays State University.

For more information on the honor and award programs at Hutchinson Community College, visit the college’s website at <a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu">www.hutchcc.edu</a>.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714600775877.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Community College&nbsp;HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two outstanding Hutchinson Community College students were recognized as the 2024 Young Kansan Award winners at a ceremony on campus on May 1. The students will also be honored during the College’s commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 3.Megan Ratzlaff (Buhler) and Ellie Van Zelfden (Valley Center) were selected from a field of students nominated for the honor. The Young Kansan award recognizes two outstanding graduates each year at Hutchinson Community College, and is chosen by a vote of the faculty and administration at the college.The award is sponsored by RCB Bank. Each winner received a plaque and a cash honorarium in recognition of their achievements.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714600541159.jpeg" alt="Megan Ratzlaff" />
 <figcaption>Megan Ratzlaff</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5783661b-d14d-4456-b7af-4d0d368bdeeb">Megan</a> has served in officer positions for the Phi Theta Kappa Kappa Gamma Chapter as well as the Hutchinson Community College’s Honors Program’s Honors Student Council and Cru (Campus Crusade for Christ). Megan is one of 459 community college students nationwide who were named semi-finalists in the 2024 Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship competition. She is the only student listed for the state of Kansas who will advance to the finalist round. In addition to this, she is one of 150 community college students nationwide who were named to the 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team. After graduation, Megan will attend Sterling College majoring in Political Science &amp; History.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714600612878.jpeg" alt="Ellie Van Zelfden" />
 <figcaption>Ellie Van Zelfden</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellie is a tutor for Rimmer Learning Resource Center. From one of her nominators: “She is responsible, caring, and willing to go the extra mile for anyone who comes in for help. Every time I see her in a conversation on campus she is engaged and truly sees value in the person.Ellie is an outstanding young Kansan who has an amazing future ahead of her.” Ellie is also a member of the HutchCC track team. After graduation, she plans to attend Fort Hays State University.For more information on the honor and award programs at Hutchinson Community College, visit the college’s website at <a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu">www.hutchcc.edu</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

HutchCC students win Young Kansan Awards

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Former Hutchinson High School Salthawk and most recently Barton Cougar, Myles Thompson, has announced his commitment to continue his basketball and academic career at SIU-Edwardsville.&nbsp;

Thompson made the announcement Wednesday on X.

The 6-foot-7 redshirt sophomore from the Salt City averaged 14 points and seven rebounds in 37 appearances and 37 starts.&nbsp;

Thompson had a breakout national tournament appearance in the Sports Arena, averaging 20.3 points and 8.3 rebounds. He scored 20 or more points in three of the four games in the tournament, helping guide the Cougars to their first-ever national title.

He was selected as a first team all-conference selection, as well as on the all-tournament teams for the Region VI Tournament and the NJCAA National Tournament.

SIU-Edwardsville is located in Edwardsville, Illinois, and is an NCAA Division I school that participates in the Ohio Valley Conference. The Cougars are coached by former Butler Community College coach Brian Barone.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714596593911.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Myles Thompson on X" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Myles Thompson on X</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Former Hutchinson High School Salthawk and most recently Barton Cougar, Myles Thompson, has announced his commitment to continue his basketball and academic career at SIU-Edwardsville.&nbsp;Thompson made the announcement Wednesday on X.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you Jesus! ✝️ Blessed to live out one of my childhood dreams of becoming a Division 1 basketball player. Thank you to my family, coaches, teammates, and opponents for pushing me everyday to be better. Ready to rock out! 🎸 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FAWFAM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FAWFAM</a> <a href="https://t.co/pjzHOVMdUA">pic.twitter.com/pjzHOVMdUA</a>&mdash; Myles Thompson (@TheRealMylesT_) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealMylesT_/status/1785759560478736517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The 6-foot-7 redshirt sophomore from the Salt City averaged 14 points and seven rebounds in 37 appearances and 37 starts.&nbsp;Thompson had a breakout national tournament appearance in the Sports Arena, averaging 20.3 points and 8.3 rebounds. He scored 20 or more points in three of the four games in the tournament, helping guide the Cougars to their first-ever national title.He was selected as a first team all-conference selection, as well as on the all-tournament teams for the Region VI Tournament and the NJCAA National Tournament.SIU-Edwardsville is located in Edwardsville, Illinois, and is an NCAA Division I school that participates in the Ohio Valley Conference. The Cougars are coached by former Butler Community College coach Brian Barone.

🏀 MBB: Former Salthawk Thompson commits to SIUE

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Six student-athletes at Hutchinson Community College signed the dotted line to continue their academic and athletic careers on Wednesday afternoon inside the Club 1928 Room at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

Three members of the national champion HutchCC women's basketball team signed, including Monae Duffy (Texas A&amp;M-Corpus Christi), Bree Horyna (Nebraska Kearney) and Brynn McCormick (Sterling College).&nbsp;

MONAE DUFFY The 5-foot-11 sophomore from Lafayette, Louisiana appeared in 68 games in her Blue Dragon career, starting 67. Duffy averaged 11.8 points per game and 8.2 rebounds.&nbsp;

Texas A&amp;M-Corpus Christi is located in Corpus Christi, Texas and is an NCAA Division I school that participates in the Southland Conference.

BREE HORYNA The 5-foot-8 sophomore from Liberal, Kansas appeared in 68 career games, starting two. She averaged nearly four points and four rebounds.

University of Nebraska-Kearney is located in Kearney, Nebraska and is an NCAA Division II school that participates in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA).

BRYNN McCORMICK The 5-foot-6 sophomore from Cheney, Kansas appeared in 36 games in her Blue Dragon career. She averaged just over one point and just under one rebound.

Sterling College is located in Sterling, Kansas and is an NAIA school that participates in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC).

Two members of the Blue Dragon men's basketball dotted the line, including Landon Wagler (Kansas Wesleyan) and JP Ricks (Prairie View A&amp;M).

LANDON WAGLER The 6-foot-5 sophomore from Lenexa, Kansas appeared in 62 games, making eight starts. Wagler averaged four points and just over one rebound. Wagler made history off the floor, as a fourth-generation Blue Dragon.&nbsp;

Kansas Wesleyan University is located in Salina, Kansas and is an NAIA school that participates in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC).

JP RICKS The 6-foot-1 sophomore from Baton Rouge, Louisiana transferred to Hutchinson for his sophomore campaign after a year at Tallahassee Community College. Ricks appeared in 36 games at HutchCC, making 35 starts. He averaged 11 points, three rebounds and five assists.

Prairie View A&amp;M University is located in Prairie View, Texas and is an NCAA Division I school that participates in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.

TANIYA GOLDEN The 6-foot sophomore from Omaha, Nebraska appeared in 77 matches in her Blue Dragon career. Golden finished her campaign with 971 total kills, nearly 3.3 a set, while also finishing with a .200 career hitting percentage.

Missouri Southern State University is located in Joplin, Missouri and is an NCAA Division II school that participates in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573996270191.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Six student-athletes at Hutchinson Community College signed the dotted line to continue their academic and athletic careers on Wednesday afternoon inside the Club 1928 Room at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714592443232.jpeg" alt="(L-R) Monae Duffy, Bree Horyna, Brynn McCormick all sign national letter of intents at HutchCC on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>(L-R) Monae Duffy, Bree Horyna, Brynn McCormick all sign national letter of intents at HutchCC on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>Three members of the national champion HutchCC women's basketball team signed, including Monae Duffy (Texas A&amp;M-Corpus Christi), Bree Horyna (Nebraska Kearney) and Brynn McCormick (Sterling College).&nbsp;MONAE DUFFY The 5-foot-11 sophomore from Lafayette, Louisiana appeared in 68 games in her Blue Dragon career, starting 67. Duffy averaged 11.8 points per game and 8.2 rebounds.&nbsp;Texas A&amp;M-Corpus Christi is located in Corpus Christi, Texas and is an NCAA Division I school that participates in the Southland Conference.BREE HORYNA The 5-foot-8 sophomore from Liberal, Kansas appeared in 68 career games, starting two. She averaged nearly four points and four rebounds.University of Nebraska-Kearney is located in Kearney, Nebraska and is an NCAA Division II school that participates in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA).BRYNN McCORMICK The 5-foot-6 sophomore from Cheney, Kansas appeared in 36 games in her Blue Dragon career. She averaged just over one point and just under one rebound.Sterling College is located in Sterling, Kansas and is an NAIA school that participates in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714592474401.jpeg" alt="(L-R) Landon Wagler and JP Ricks sign national letter of intents at HutchCC on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>(L-R) Landon Wagler and JP Ricks sign national letter of intents at HutchCC on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>Two members of the Blue Dragon men's basketball dotted the line, including Landon Wagler (Kansas Wesleyan) and JP Ricks (Prairie View A&amp;M).LANDON WAGLER The 6-foot-5 sophomore from Lenexa, Kansas appeared in 62 games, making eight starts. Wagler averaged four points and just over one rebound. Wagler made history off the floor, as a fourth-generation Blue Dragon.&nbsp;Kansas Wesleyan University is located in Salina, Kansas and is an NAIA school that participates in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC).JP RICKS The 6-foot-1 sophomore from Baton Rouge, Louisiana transferred to Hutchinson for his sophomore campaign after a year at Tallahassee Community College. Ricks appeared in 36 games at HutchCC, making 35 starts. He averaged 11 points, three rebounds and five assists.Prairie View A&amp;M University is located in Prairie View, Texas and is an NCAA Division I school that participates in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714592562605.jpeg" alt="Taniya Golden signs her national letter of intent at HutchCC on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Taniya Golden signs her national letter of intent at HutchCC on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>TANIYA GOLDEN The 6-foot sophomore from Omaha, Nebraska appeared in 77 matches in her Blue Dragon career. Golden finished her campaign with 971 total kills, nearly 3.3 a set, while also finishing with a .200 career hitting percentage.Missouri Southern State University is located in Joplin, Missouri and is an NCAA Division II school that participates in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA).

🏀🏐 6 Blue Dragons sign to continue athletic and academic careers

KJCCC West Pitcher of the Week: Ethan Giesbrecht - Hutchinson Community College&nbsp; Blue Dragon sophomore starting pitcher Ethan Giesbrecht became the first Blue Dragon pitcher to reach nine wins in a season since 2014 and help the Blue Dragons clinch a Jayhawk West championship in a Game 1 win over Barton last week. Giesbrecht three five innings of one-hit shutout baseball in a 7-2 league-clinching victory over Barton. He struck out four and walked two in pushing his season record to 9-2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714575233914.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy KJCCC" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy KJCCC</figcaption>
 </figure>KJCCC ReleaseKJCCC West Pitcher of the Week: Ethan Giesbrecht - Hutchinson Community College&nbsp; Blue Dragon sophomore starting pitcher Ethan Giesbrecht became the first Blue Dragon pitcher to reach nine wins in a season since 2014 and help the Blue Dragons clinch a Jayhawk West championship in a Game 1 win over Barton last week. Giesbrecht three five innings of one-hit shutout baseball in a 7-2 league-clinching victory over Barton. He struck out four and walked two in pushing his season record to 9-2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ HutchCC's Giesbrecht named Jayhawk West Pitcher of the Week

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/images/setup/2024_Entry_Form.pdf">ENTRY FORM</a>

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The annual Hutchinson Community College Blue Dragon Golf Tournament will take place on Friday, May 3 at Carey Park with a 10 a.m. shotgun start.

The Athletic Office is still accepting registration for the tournament. You can find out more information on the tournament on the flyer below, or you can click above to find the registration form.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714572420968.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/images/setup/2024_Entry_Form.pdf">ENTRY FORM</a>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The annual Hutchinson Community College Blue Dragon Golf Tournament will take place on Friday, May 3 at Carey Park with a 10 a.m. shotgun start.The Athletic Office is still accepting registration for the tournament. You can find out more information on the tournament on the flyer below, or you can click above to find the registration form.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714572325571.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

⛳ HutchCC Blue Dragon Golf Tournament is Friday at Carey Park

KANSAS CITY, Missouri – The Hutchinson Community College men's golf team earned a co-Region 6 championship, a runner-up Central District finish and a trip to the NJCAA National Division I Men's Golf Championship on Tuesday at Tiffany Greens Golf Club.

The Blue Dragons tied Dodge City for second in the team standings with a 54-hole total of 881 on Tuesday to close out the Plains District/Region VI championship.

Hutchinson now qualifies for its 23rd consecutive berth in the national tournament, which will be May 14-17 at Rockwind Country Club in Hobbs, New Mexico, with their eighth runner-up or better finish in a district tournament.

The No. 5-nationally ranked and 2024 Jayhawk Conference champion Blue Dragons also captured their 22nd Region VI championship in program history.

No. 3-nationally ranked Indian Hills rolled to the Plains District Championship finishing with a 298 on Tuesday and closing with a 54-hole total of 864. Hutchinson and Dodge City were second at 881. Dodge City shot the low team round on Tuesday at 294. Iowa Western and Barton tied for fourth and earned the other two automatic qualifying spots from the Central District.

The Blue Dragons had two players earn all-district honors on Tuesday.

Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/box_charlie_jgcb">Charlie Box</a>&nbsp;finished sixth overall at 2-over 218. Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/anderson_marco_qoi7">Marco Anderson</a>&nbsp;was 10th at 6-over 222.

Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/thissen_kenton_qoy2">Keaton Thissen</a>&nbsp;tied for 11th at 223, freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/razinskas_david_7wz3">David Razinskas</a>&nbsp;tied for 18th at 226 and redshirt freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/ross_louis_dfpl">Louis Ross</a>&nbsp;tied for 24th at 228. Individual player&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/sauder_brooks_jmni">Brooks Sauder</a>&nbsp;was 59th at 258.

Box was third in the overall Region 6 individual standings. Anderson and Thissen were sixth and seventh, respectively. Razinskas was 12th, Ross was 15th and Sauder was 29th.

Thissen led the Blue Dragons on Tuesday with an even-par 72. Thissen had four birdies and four bogeys over his final round, including a 30-yard chip-in for birdie on No. 6. The Blue Dragon freshman calmly parred his final holes to help the Blue Dragons down the stretch.

Box shot a 1-over 73 on Tuesday to close out his tournament. The Dragons also counted scores from Anderson (76) and Razinskas (79). Ross closed with an 81 and Sauder had an 87 to close the tournament.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714570195474.jpeg" alt="Keaton Thissen fist pumps after a chip-in birdie on No. 6 at Tiffany Greens Golf Club on Tuesday in Kansas City during the final round of the NJCAA Central District/Region 6 Championship. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Keaton Thissen fist pumps after a chip-in birdie on No. 6 at Tiffany Greens Golf Club on Tuesday in Kansas City during the final round of the NJCAA Central District/Region 6 Championship. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationKANSAS CITY, Missouri – The Hutchinson Community College men's golf team earned a co-Region 6 championship, a runner-up Central District finish and a trip to the NJCAA National Division I Men's Golf Championship on Tuesday at Tiffany Greens Golf Club.The Blue Dragons tied Dodge City for second in the team standings with a 54-hole total of 881 on Tuesday to close out the Plains District/Region VI championship.Hutchinson now qualifies for its 23rd consecutive berth in the national tournament, which will be May 14-17 at Rockwind Country Club in Hobbs, New Mexico, with their eighth runner-up or better finish in a district tournament.The No. 5-nationally ranked and 2024 Jayhawk Conference champion Blue Dragons also captured their 22nd Region VI championship in program history.No. 3-nationally ranked Indian Hills rolled to the Plains District Championship finishing with a 298 on Tuesday and closing with a 54-hole total of 864. Hutchinson and Dodge City were second at 881. Dodge City shot the low team round on Tuesday at 294. Iowa Western and Barton tied for fourth and earned the other two automatic qualifying spots from the Central District.The Blue Dragons had two players earn all-district honors on Tuesday.Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/box_charlie_jgcb">Charlie Box</a>&nbsp;finished sixth overall at 2-over 218. Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/anderson_marco_qoi7">Marco Anderson</a>&nbsp;was 10th at 6-over 222.Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/thissen_kenton_qoy2">Keaton Thissen</a>&nbsp;tied for 11th at 223, freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/razinskas_david_7wz3">David Razinskas</a>&nbsp;tied for 18th at 226 and redshirt freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/ross_louis_dfpl">Louis Ross</a>&nbsp;tied for 24th at 228. Individual player&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/sauder_brooks_jmni">Brooks Sauder</a>&nbsp;was 59th at 258.Box was third in the overall Region 6 individual standings. Anderson and Thissen were sixth and seventh, respectively. Razinskas was 12th, Ross was 15th and Sauder was 29th.Thissen led the Blue Dragons on Tuesday with an even-par 72. Thissen had four birdies and four bogeys over his final round, including a 30-yard chip-in for birdie on No. 6. The Blue Dragon freshman calmly parred his final holes to help the Blue Dragons down the stretch.Box shot a 1-over 73 on Tuesday to close out his tournament. The Dragons also counted scores from Anderson (76) and Razinskas (79). Ross closed with an 81 and Sauder had an 87 to close the tournament.

⛳ Co-Region VI champion, Central District runner-up Dragons qualify for nationals

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College will celebrate its annual commencement ceremony this Friday, May 3 at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

The ceremony will begin at 7:00 p.m. and will recognize students graduating with an Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, Associate of General Studies, Associate of Fine Arts, Associate of Applied Science and/or Certificates of Technical Education.

“The academic achievements of our students deserve to be properly recognized and celebrated”, stated HutchCC President Dr. Carter File. “We are excited to gather with our graduates along with their friends and families to honor them.”

For those unable to attend in-person, the ceremony will be available on the College’s YouTube channel.

For more information on Hutchinson Community College’s commencement and for links to the ceremonies, visit <a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/graduation">www.hutchcc.edu/graduation</a>.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712757810134.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Community CollegeHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College will celebrate its annual commencement ceremony this Friday, May 3 at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.The ceremony will begin at 7:00 p.m. and will recognize students graduating with an Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, Associate of General Studies, Associate of Fine Arts, Associate of Applied Science and/or Certificates of Technical Education.“The academic achievements of our students deserve to be properly recognized and celebrated”, stated HutchCC President Dr. Carter File. “We are excited to gather with our graduates along with their friends and families to honor them.”For those unable to attend in-person, the ceremony will be available on the College’s YouTube channel.For more information on Hutchinson Community College’s commencement and for links to the ceremonies, visit <a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/graduation">www.hutchcc.edu/graduation</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

HutchCC commencement is Friday

Andrew "Andy" Ray Griggs, age 76, of Hutchinson, Kansas, passed away on April 27, 2024 at Hospice House. He was born in Stillwater, Oklahoma on September 11, 1947, to John Jr. and Joyce (Kennedy) Griggs.&nbsp;

Andy graduated from Nickerson High School, Nickerson, KS in 1966 and then enlisted in the U.S. Navy Reserve, serving in Adak, Alaska. While attending Hutchinson Junior College, Andy met the love of his life, Rebecca "Becky" Zimmerman, and they were married on August 5, 1972.&nbsp;

Andy worked for 30 years as a Frito-Lay route salesman, retiring in 2008. He enjoyed gardening and was an avid fisherman. A former member of the McPherson Bass Busters and Salt City Bass Masters fishing clubs, Andy and his family spent many weekends on the water at the Hutchinson Water Sports Club, Burrton, KS, and later at Marion County Lake, Marion, KS. In 2021, Andy had the honor of visiting Washington D.C. as part of the Kansas Honor Flight program. Seeing the veteran memorials held significant meaning for him.

Andy is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Becky; daughter Nicolette (Brian) Denney of Maize, KS; son Brett (Jamie) Griggs of Winston-Salem, NC; brothers Bryan Griggs and John III (Stefanie) Griggs; grandsons Austin Denney and Elijah Griggs; and nephew EJ Griggs. He was preceded in death by his parents and several dear friends.

A Come &amp; Go Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 10, 2024, from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Taylors’ Shady Lane Cabin at Dillon Nature Center, 3002 E. 30th Avenue, Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;Guests are invited to wear Kansas City Chiefs attire in support of Andy’s favorite team. The final resting place will be in the Rocky Mountains at a later date, a place he loved. &nbsp;Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp;

Memorial contributions may be made to the Kansas Honor Flight organization in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main St, Hutchinson, KS 67501.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714515685709.jpeg" alt="Andrew "Andy" Ray Griggs" />
 <figcaption>Andrew "Andy" Ray Griggs</figcaption>
 </figure>Andrew "Andy" Ray Griggs, age 76, of Hutchinson, Kansas, passed away on April 27, 2024 at Hospice House. He was born in Stillwater, Oklahoma on September 11, 1947, to John Jr. and Joyce (Kennedy) Griggs.&nbsp;Andy graduated from Nickerson High School, Nickerson, KS in 1966 and then enlisted in the U.S. Navy Reserve, serving in Adak, Alaska. While attending Hutchinson Junior College, Andy met the love of his life, Rebecca "Becky" Zimmerman, and they were married on August 5, 1972.&nbsp;Andy worked for 30 years as a Frito-Lay route salesman, retiring in 2008. He enjoyed gardening and was an avid fisherman. A former member of the McPherson Bass Busters and Salt City Bass Masters fishing clubs, Andy and his family spent many weekends on the water at the Hutchinson Water Sports Club, Burrton, KS, and later at Marion County Lake, Marion, KS. In 2021, Andy had the honor of visiting Washington D.C. as part of the Kansas Honor Flight program. Seeing the veteran memorials held significant meaning for him.Andy is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Becky; daughter Nicolette (Brian) Denney of Maize, KS; son Brett (Jamie) Griggs of Winston-Salem, NC; brothers Bryan Griggs and John III (Stefanie) Griggs; grandsons Austin Denney and Elijah Griggs; and nephew EJ Griggs. He was preceded in death by his parents and several dear friends.A Come &amp; Go Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 10, 2024, from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Taylors’ Shady Lane Cabin at Dillon Nature Center, 3002 E. 30th Avenue, Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;Guests are invited to wear Kansas City Chiefs attire in support of Andy’s favorite team. The final resting place will be in the Rocky Mountains at a later date, a place he loved. &nbsp;Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp;Memorial contributions may be made to the Kansas Honor Flight organization in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main St, Hutchinson, KS 67501.&nbsp;

Andrew "Andy" Ray Griggs |1947-2024|

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Rotary Leadership Camp offers an opportunity to discuss the possibilities and responsibilities of being a servant leader, and highlights what Rotary is doing in different communities. 

Throughout the camp students will learn about themselves and others, and about motivation and teamwork. The students will discover that he or she cannot be a leader without being a servant first. 

RYLA is a leadership camp from May 28-May 31 at Southwestern College.  If selected, the Rotary Club would fully sponsor the student.  RYLA is open to any Reno County students entering grades 10-12 for the 24-25 school year.

If you have an interested student, they need to fill out <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScS3lyHRVau-iF58E3q5vKlyAdxttgWvwaSe5vtrAbjLQ-ETw/viewform">this form</a> by May 3.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619621531887.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Rotary Club of HutchinsonHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Rotary Leadership Camp offers an opportunity to discuss the possibilities and responsibilities of being a servant leader, and highlights what Rotary is doing in different communities. Throughout the camp students will learn about themselves and others, and about motivation and teamwork. The students will discover that he or she cannot be a leader without being a servant first. RYLA is a leadership camp from May 28-May 31 at Southwestern College. If selected, the Rotary Club would fully sponsor the student. RYLA is open to any Reno County students entering grades 10-12 for the 24-25 school year.If you have an interested student, they need to fill out <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScS3lyHRVau-iF58E3q5vKlyAdxttgWvwaSe5vtrAbjLQ-ETw/viewform">this form</a> by May 3.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Rotary seeking leadership camp interest

Marvin William Phipps Jr. (Bill), 71, lifelong resident of Hutchinson, passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at home surrounded by loved ones.

Bill was born December 10, 1952, to Marvin and Peggy Phipps, and the second-eldest of 7 siblings. He graduated from Nickerson High in 1970 and attended Hutchinson Community College.

A very proud and supportive father and grandpa. He loved family, always putting them first. He married and had two children, Jason and Yvonne, and later married the love of his life, Rita.

Always willing to help out in any situation, Bill was known as "Mr. Fix-it" at work. He could fix anything, and was a skilled machinist, mechanic, and painter.  In addition to being employed for years at Cessna (later Eaton) And Takako, Bill was the owner of Countryside Auto, a business where he worked alongside his father and brothers to restore automobiles. At home Bill loved to landscape and improve his home, listen to oldies and watch comedies.  He always had a project. He was fastidious with his work, re-doing it until it was just right.  He even managed to keep a green, perfect lawn in the middle of winter.

Bill had a huge sweet tooth for pies, pastries and ice cream, you could always count on him to bring home something sweet from the grocery store.  A home that Bill and Rita built themselves next door to the house he grew up in.  Bill was also a prankster of pranksters, always planning elaborate practical jokes on his siblings and friends. Bill loved to laugh and joke around. He was always up for adventure and trying new things, even building a five-man pyramid while water skiing at Kanopolis lake.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents; a half-sister, Cheryl Siaz, and nephew Jeremy Edwards. He is survived by his Wife, Rita Phipps of Hutchinson, KS; son, Jason Phipps of Los Angeles, CA, daughter, Yvonne (Mike) Warkentin of Hutchinson, KS; grandchildren, Payton Warkentin of Manhattan, KS; Sydney Warkentin of Hutchinson, KS; Bailey Warkentin of Hutchinson, KS; and Gage Warkentin of Hutchinson, KS; two sisters, Pam (John) Edwards of Hutchinson, KS; Cheri Phipps of Hutchinson, KS; four brothers, Mike Phipps of Hutchinson, KS; Doug Phipps of Camden, TN; Robert Phipps of Hutchinson, KS;  Randy Phipps of Hutchinson, KS; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Arrangements and care entrusted to Heritage Funeral Home &amp; Crematory.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714494010368.jpeg" alt="Marvin William Phipps Jr. (Bill)" />
 <figcaption>Marvin William Phipps Jr. (Bill)</figcaption>
 </figure>Marvin William Phipps Jr. (Bill), 71, lifelong resident of Hutchinson, passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at home surrounded by loved ones.Bill was born December 10, 1952, to Marvin and Peggy Phipps, and the second-eldest of 7 siblings. He graduated from Nickerson High in 1970 and attended Hutchinson Community College.A very proud and supportive father and grandpa. He loved family, always putting them first. He married and had two children, Jason and Yvonne, and later married the love of his life, Rita.Always willing to help out in any situation, Bill was known as "Mr. Fix-it" at work. He could fix anything, and was a skilled machinist, mechanic, and painter. In addition to being employed for years at Cessna (later Eaton) And Takako, Bill was the owner of Countryside Auto, a business where he worked alongside his father and brothers to restore automobiles. At home Bill loved to landscape and improve his home, listen to oldies and watch comedies. He always had a project. He was fastidious with his work, re-doing it until it was just right. He even managed to keep a green, perfect lawn in the middle of winter.Bill had a huge sweet tooth for pies, pastries and ice cream, you could always count on him to bring home something sweet from the grocery store. A home that Bill and Rita built themselves next door to the house he grew up in. Bill was also a prankster of pranksters, always planning elaborate practical jokes on his siblings and friends. Bill loved to laugh and joke around. He was always up for adventure and trying new things, even building a five-man pyramid while water skiing at Kanopolis lake.Bill is preceded in death by his parents; a half-sister, Cheryl Siaz, and nephew Jeremy Edwards. He is survived by his Wife, Rita Phipps of Hutchinson, KS; son, Jason Phipps of Los Angeles, CA, daughter, Yvonne (Mike) Warkentin of Hutchinson, KS; grandchildren, Payton Warkentin of Manhattan, KS; Sydney Warkentin of Hutchinson, KS; Bailey Warkentin of Hutchinson, KS; and Gage Warkentin of Hutchinson, KS; two sisters, Pam (John) Edwards of Hutchinson, KS; Cheri Phipps of Hutchinson, KS; four brothers, Mike Phipps of Hutchinson, KS; Doug Phipps of Camden, TN; Robert Phipps of Hutchinson, KS; Randy Phipps of Hutchinson, KS; and numerous nieces and nephews.Arrangements and care entrusted to Heritage Funeral Home &amp; Crematory.

Marvin William Phipps Jr. (Bill) |1952-2024|

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team spent its Tuesday morning at the Kansas State Capitol Building, as the team was honored for its unbeaten national championship season.

The team was first honored by the House of Representatives, followed by recognition by the Senate.

The Blue Dragons claimed the NJCAA national title on April 1 with an 88-80 overtime win over Northwest Florida State to claim its first-ever national title in the programs 50-year history. The team also finished with a perfect 37-0 record.

HutchCC head coach John Ontjes presented Speaker of the House Dan Hawkins, a HutchCC native with a national championship t-shirt.

Senator Mark Steffen, a Hutchinson native, announced the proclamation for the Blue Dragons in the Senate.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714486768697.png" alt="House of Representatives. Photo Courtesy KS Legislature YouTube" />
 <figcaption>House of Representatives. Photo Courtesy KS Legislature YouTube</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team spent its Tuesday morning at the Kansas State Capitol Building, as the team was honored for its unbeaten national championship season.The team was first honored by the House of Representatives, followed by recognition by the Senate.The Blue Dragons claimed the NJCAA national title on April 1 with an 88-80 overtime win over Northwest Florida State to claim its first-ever national title in the programs 50-year history. The team also finished with a perfect 37-0 record.HutchCC head coach John Ontjes presented Speaker of the House Dan Hawkins, a HutchCC native with a national championship t-shirt.Senator Mark Steffen, a Hutchinson native, announced the proclamation for the Blue Dragons in the Senate.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714489195274.png" alt="Senate Chamber. Photo Courtesy KS Legislature YouTube" />
 <figcaption>Senate Chamber. Photo Courtesy KS Legislature YouTube</figcaption>
 </figure>

🏀 WBB: Blue Dragons honored by House and Senate Tuesday in Topeka

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College meat animal evaluation team wrapped up a strong spring with a national championship from the All East Intercollegiate Livestock Judging contest hosted by Mississippi State University April 18-20.

This was the inaugural event for junior colleges to compete in this type of contest in an organized setting. Not only was HutchCC the high-ranking junior college team, but they outscored every university team in the overall contest.

Eight freshmen and three sophomores competed in this all-encompassing three-day event that consisted of extensive evaluations of market cattle, swine and sheep.

In addition to their win at All East, the students were the high placing junior college team at the North Central Meat Animal Evaluation Contest in March hosted by the University of Illinois and ranked ahead of all universities there as well in the breeding animal selection contest.

The Hutchinson Community College meat animal evaluation team is coached by Kane Austin and assisted by Kami McComb and Will Banks.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714483472774.jpeg" alt="Front row (L to R): Grace Pool, Norwich, KS; Courtney Stansbury, Little River, KS; Colt Blacklock, Dundurn, SK, Canada; Codee Kopelchuk, Canora, SK, Canada; Taya Chelmo, Kimball, SD. Back row (L to R): Will Banks, Assistant Coach; Braeden Grasser, Little River, KS; Madie Alldredge, Blountsville, AL; Travis Oliver, Garden City, KS; Jamie Geyer, Lisbon, ND; Eli Rich, Moss, TN; Chancey Hauck, Rush Center, KS; Kami McComb, Assistant Coach; Kane Austin, Coach." />
 <figcaption>Front row (L to R): Grace Pool, Norwich, KS; Courtney Stansbury, Little River, KS; Colt Blacklock, Dundurn, SK, Canada; Codee Kopelchuk, Canora, SK, Canada; Taya Chelmo, Kimball, SD. Back row (L to R): Will Banks, Assistant Coach; Braeden Grasser, Little River, KS; Madie Alldredge, Blountsville, AL; Travis Oliver, Garden City, KS; Jamie Geyer, Lisbon, ND; Eli Rich, Moss, TN; Chancey Hauck, Rush Center, KS; Kami McComb, Assistant Coach; Kane Austin, Coach.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Community CollegeHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College meat animal evaluation team wrapped up a strong spring with a national championship from the All East Intercollegiate Livestock Judging contest hosted by Mississippi State University April 18-20.This was the inaugural event for junior colleges to compete in this type of contest in an organized setting. Not only was HutchCC the high-ranking junior college team, but they outscored every university team in the overall contest.Eight freshmen and three sophomores competed in this all-encompassing three-day event that consisted of extensive evaluations of market cattle, swine and sheep.In addition to their win at All East, the students were the high placing junior college team at the North Central Meat Animal Evaluation Contest in March hosted by the University of Illinois and ranked ahead of all universities there as well in the breeding animal selection contest.The Hutchinson Community College meat animal evaluation team is coached by Kane Austin and assisted by Kami McComb and Will Banks.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

HutchCC Meat Evaluation Team claims National Championship

Courtesy Hutchinson CC Sports Information

KANSAS CITY, Missouri – Powered by under-par rounds from&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/box_charlie_jgcb">Charlie Box</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/anderson_marco_qoi7">Marco Anderson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/thissen_kenton_qoy2">Keaton Thissen</a>, the Hutchinson Community College men's golf team are in second place after two round of the NJCAA Central District/Region VI Championship at Tiffany Greens Golf Club.

The No. 5-ranked Blue Dragons trail No. 3 Indian Hills by 15 strokes heading into Tuesday's final round, which tees off at 8:45 a.m. in a shotgun start. The Blue Dragons have a six-stroke lead for the Region VI lead over Dodge City.

Hutchinson also has a 33-stroke cushion to finish in the top 5 and automatically qualify for the NJCAA Division I Men's Golf Championships in three weeks in Hobbs, New Mexico. The Blue Dragons are bidding for their 23rd consecutive bid to the national tournament.

The Dragons had rounds of 3-over 291 and 2-over 290 to card a 36-hole team score of 581. Indian Hills is at 566 (283-283) in Monday's two rounds. Dodge City is third at 587 (297-290). Iowa Western and Barton are tied for fourth at 600 and Garden City is sixth at 614.

Box shot a 1-under 71 to lead the Blue Dragons in Monday's first round. The Dragons also counted scores from&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/ross_louis_dfpl">Louis Ross</a>&nbsp;(72),&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/razinskas_david_7wz3">David Razinskas</a>&nbsp;(73) and Anderson (75).

Anderson and Thissen both shot 71s in the afternoon round to lead the Blue Dragons led the Dragons in the afternoon round with a pair of 71s. The Dragons also counted scored from Box (74) and Razinskas (74).

Individually, the Blue Dragons have to players in the Top 10 and four in the Top 15.

Box is tied for fifth in the district standings at 145. Box is 11 shots off the lead of Indian Hills' Jose Carletta, who had back-to-back 67s to lead with a 134. Box is second in the Region standings. Box trails Dodge City's Arthit Kruaprayong by three strokes in the Region 6 standings.

Anderson had a rough start to the day, playing the first five holes of his opening round at 4-over par. But the sophomore played the rest of the opening round in 1-under par to close at 75 and had a 71 in the afternoon round and is tied for seventh at 146 and is tied for fourth in the regional standings.

Razinskas and Ross are tied for 12th in the district standings and tied for eighth in the regional standings.

Individual player&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/sauder_brooks_jmni">Brooks Sauder</a>&nbsp;is 59th with a 36-hole score of 171 (90-81).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714482856458.jpeg" alt="Marco Anderson puts in the second round of the NJCAA Central District Tournament at Tiffany Greens Golf Course on Monday in Kansas City, MO. Anderson shot a 71 in the second round. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)." />
 <figcaption>Marco Anderson puts in the second round of the NJCAA Central District Tournament at Tiffany Greens Golf Course on Monday in Kansas City, MO. Anderson shot a 71 in the second round. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information).</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy Hutchinson CC Sports InformationKANSAS CITY, Missouri – Powered by under-par rounds from&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/box_charlie_jgcb">Charlie Box</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/anderson_marco_qoi7">Marco Anderson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/thissen_kenton_qoy2">Keaton Thissen</a>, the Hutchinson Community College men's golf team are in second place after two round of the NJCAA Central District/Region VI Championship at Tiffany Greens Golf Club.The No. 5-ranked Blue Dragons trail No. 3 Indian Hills by 15 strokes heading into Tuesday's final round, which tees off at 8:45 a.m. in a shotgun start. The Blue Dragons have a six-stroke lead for the Region VI lead over Dodge City.Hutchinson also has a 33-stroke cushion to finish in the top 5 and automatically qualify for the NJCAA Division I Men's Golf Championships in three weeks in Hobbs, New Mexico. The Blue Dragons are bidding for their 23rd consecutive bid to the national tournament.The Dragons had rounds of 3-over 291 and 2-over 290 to card a 36-hole team score of 581. Indian Hills is at 566 (283-283) in Monday's two rounds. Dodge City is third at 587 (297-290). Iowa Western and Barton are tied for fourth at 600 and Garden City is sixth at 614.Box shot a 1-under 71 to lead the Blue Dragons in Monday's first round. The Dragons also counted scores from&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/ross_louis_dfpl">Louis Ross</a>&nbsp;(72),&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/razinskas_david_7wz3">David Razinskas</a>&nbsp;(73) and Anderson (75).Anderson and Thissen both shot 71s in the afternoon round to lead the Blue Dragons led the Dragons in the afternoon round with a pair of 71s. The Dragons also counted scored from Box (74) and Razinskas (74).Individually, the Blue Dragons have to players in the Top 10 and four in the Top 15.Box is tied for fifth in the district standings at 145. Box is 11 shots off the lead of Indian Hills' Jose Carletta, who had back-to-back 67s to lead with a 134. Box is second in the Region standings. Box trails Dodge City's Arthit Kruaprayong by three strokes in the Region 6 standings.Anderson had a rough start to the day, playing the first five holes of his opening round at 4-over par. But the sophomore played the rest of the opening round in 1-under par to close at 75 and had a 71 in the afternoon round and is tied for seventh at 146 and is tied for fourth in the regional standings.Razinskas and Ross are tied for 12th in the district standings and tied for eighth in the regional standings.Thissen is tied for 23rd at 151 (80-71).Individual player&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/sauder_brooks_jmni">Brooks Sauder</a>&nbsp;is 59th with a 36-hole score of 171 (90-81).

⛳ Blue Dragons 2nd after 36 holes of Central District Tournament

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting Wednesday afternoon at 4 p.m. in the Justice Theater of the Shears Technology Center to act on the hiring of new Hutchinson Community College President Dr. Tricia Paramore.

Paramore, the vice president of academic affairs at HutchCC since February 2023 and a 28-year veteran of the institution, will become president of the college July 1.

From a beginning pool of 46 applicants, five semifinalists emerged and were interviewed by the search committee. The field narrowed to three finalists, each participating in a daylong interview on campus.

Hundreds of people heard the three finalists and were asked to fill out evaluation forms. The forms were then distributed to all board members for their review and to assist them in the decision-making process.

The details of the agreement will be part of the meeting minutes on Wednesday.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713466226667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting Wednesday afternoon at 4 p.m. in the Justice Theater of the Shears Technology Center to act on the hiring of new Hutchinson Community College President Dr. Tricia Paramore.Paramore, the vice president of academic affairs at HutchCC since February 2023 and a 28-year veteran of the institution, will become president of the college July 1.From a beginning pool of 46 applicants, five semifinalists emerged and were interviewed by the search committee. The field narrowed to three finalists, each participating in a daylong interview on campus.Hundreds of people heard the three finalists and were asked to fill out evaluation forms. The forms were then distributed to all board members for their review and to assist them in the decision-making process.The details of the agreement will be part of the meeting minutes on Wednesday.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Special meeting Wednesday to finalize Paramore hire

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Several Hutch Post area students will receive awards as part of the National FFA Scholarship program.

Below are the Hutch Post area recipients, with names in bold:

Loren McQuilliam-Buhler-Mel Hambelton Ford $1,000

Amos Harder-Buhler-FFA Future Leaders Scholarship TSC-4-year College $10,000

Virginia Alaniz-Kingman-Newberry Family Motors Ford $1,000

Danielle Rogers-Buhler-Bayer-Grow Ag Leaders Scholarship $1,500

Ian Dunn-Stafford-BNSF Railway Company Collegiate Scholarship $1,500

Jack Barrow-McPherson-Midway Motors $1,000

Jaelyn Anderson-Buhler-FFA Future Leaders Scholarship by TSC-Trade $5,000

Krysten Hamby-Buhler-Bayer-Grow Ag Leaders Scholarship $1,500

Makenna Siemens-Buhler-Mel Hambelton Ford $1,000

Lane McMannis-Canton-Galva-Frontier Farm Credit $2,000

Megan Krueger-Buhler-Mel Hambelton Ford $1,000

Peyton Coldren-Buhler-Bayer-Grow Ag Leaders Scholarship $1,500

Emmie Stallman-Buhler-Mel Hambelton Ford $1,000

Sage Toews-Canton-Galva-Midway Motors $1,000

Zachary Martisko-Inman-Midway Motors $1,000

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685735875202.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Several Hutch Post area students will receive awards as part of the National FFA Scholarship program.Below are the Hutch Post area recipients, with names in bold:Loren McQuilliam-Buhler-Mel Hambelton Ford $1,000Amos Harder-Buhler-FFA Future Leaders Scholarship TSC-4-year College $10,000Virginia Alaniz-Kingman-Newberry Family Motors Ford $1,000Danielle Rogers-Buhler-Bayer-Grow Ag Leaders Scholarship $1,500Ian Dunn-Stafford-BNSF Railway Company Collegiate Scholarship $1,500Jack Barrow-McPherson-Midway Motors $1,000Jaelyn Anderson-Buhler-FFA Future Leaders Scholarship by TSC-Trade $5,000Krysten Hamby-Buhler-Bayer-Grow Ag Leaders Scholarship $1,500Makenna Siemens-Buhler-Mel Hambelton Ford $1,000Lane McMannis-Canton-Galva-Frontier Farm Credit $2,000Megan Krueger-Buhler-Mel Hambelton Ford $1,000Peyton Coldren-Buhler-Bayer-Grow Ag Leaders Scholarship $1,500Emmie Stallman-Buhler-Mel Hambelton Ford $1,000Sage Toews-Canton-Galva-Midway Motors $1,000Zachary Martisko-Inman-Midway Motors $1,000<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

National FFA Scholarship Winners announced

Four former Hutchinson Community College football players have signed undrafted free agent contracts with NFL teams after this past weekend’s NFL Draft in Detroit.

Defensive back Ro Torrence has signed with the Seattle Seahawks. Defensive lineman Tramel Walthouer has signed with Baltimore Ravens. Defensive lineman Rodney Matthews has signed with the Green Bay Packers and Isaiah Iton has signed with the Tennessee Titans.

These four players are the 48th, 49th, 50th and 51st former Blue Dragons to be drafted or signed as undrafted free agents in the program’s history.

After Hutchinson, Torrence originally transferred to Auburn University and then to Arizona State before going to the 2024 NFL Combine and ultimately signing with the Seattle Seahawks.

With the Blue Dragons, all Torrence did was win 2020-21 National Defensive Player of the Year honors and help Hutchinson win a national championship.

The Bessemer, Alabama native helped produce a defense that ranked No. 3 in scoring defense and No. 7 in total defense in the nation in the 2020-21 Covid-challenged spring season and helped the No. 1-ranked Blue Dragons defeat No. 2 Snow College 29-27 in the NJCAA Championship Game on June 5 in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Torrence had a huge second-quarter interception in the championship game when the Blue Dragons were trailing 14-3. For the game, Torrence had three total tackles and the interception in the championship contest.

Torrence didn’t post the huge overall numbers one might associate with this honor. His numbers simply don’t tell the entire story of Torrence’s tremendous sophomore season, but they do speak volumes to the respect opposing teams gave him throughout the 2020-21 season.

Torrence had 26 total tackles in eight games started this season. Torrence broke up five passes with one interception During the regular season, Torrence was hardly targeted over the final five games of the regular season, thus cutting the field in half for opposing offenses.

Torrence is the third Blue Dragon to originally sign with the Seahawks, joining Claude George (2013-14, UDFA in 2017) and B.J. Emmons (2017, UDFA, 2020).

TRAMEL WALTHOUR – Baltimore Ravens

Walthour played one season for the Blue Dragons in 2018 where he garnered 16 total tackles and a quarterback sack in 10 games for Hutchinson.

Walthour spent five seasons at the University of Georgia. He played in 13 games last season while starting in five of them. He finished his career with 49 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and 2 sacks. He helped the Bulldogs win back-to-back national titles throughout his career.

Walthouer is the fourth Blue Dragon to start his career in the Ravens’ organization. The others are Phil Hawkins (2001, UDFA 2024); Meshak Williams (2009-10, UDFA 2013) and Jonathan White (2019, UDFA 2023).

RODNEY MATTHEWS – Green Bay Packers

Matthews was a defensive tackle for the Blue Dragons in the 2019 seasons, where he earned all-Jayhawk Conference honors. Matthews played in 10 games for the Blue Dragons had had 19 total tackles with 2.5 quarterback sacks and 5.5 tackles for loss as a Blue Dragon.

Matthews moved on to Ohio University where he played in 41 games. Matthews had 71 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss and three sacks. He snagged his first career interception during Ohio's historic victory over the Iowa State Cyclones (Sept. 16, 2023).&nbsp;

Matthews joins a long just of former Blue Dragons to start with the Packers. The others are Kevin Barry (1997-98, UDFA 2002), Angelo Pease (2011, UDFA 2013), Caliph Brice (2017-18, UDFA 2021); Devonte Wyatt (2019; 1st-round 2022).

Iton never played a game for the Blue Dragons but was with the team in the fall of 2020, the Covid pandemic season. After taking care of his course work at HutchCC, Iton transferred to the University of Mississippi and ultimately to Rutgers University for the 2023 season.

Iton started all 13 games last season after transferring from Ole Miss. He had 38 tackles and one sack.

Iton is the third Blue Dragon to start his professional career with the Titans, joining Jason Gamble (1994-95, UDFA in 1997) and Toby Johnson (2012-13, UDFA in 2015).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714411907528.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationFour former Hutchinson Community College football players have signed undrafted free agent contracts with NFL teams after this past weekend’s NFL Draft in Detroit.Defensive back Ro Torrence has signed with the Seattle Seahawks. Defensive lineman Tramel Walthouer has signed with Baltimore Ravens. Defensive lineman Rodney Matthews has signed with the Green Bay Packers and Isaiah Iton has signed with the Tennessee Titans.These four players are the 48th, 49th, 50th and 51st former Blue Dragons to be drafted or signed as undrafted free agents in the program’s history.RO TORRENCE – Seattle SeahawksAfter Hutchinson, Torrence originally transferred to Auburn University and then to Arizona State before going to the 2024 NFL Combine and ultimately signing with the Seattle Seahawks.With the Blue Dragons, all Torrence did was win 2020-21 National Defensive Player of the Year honors and help Hutchinson win a national championship.The Bessemer, Alabama native helped produce a defense that ranked No. 3 in scoring defense and No. 7 in total defense in the nation in the 2020-21 Covid-challenged spring season and helped the No. 1-ranked Blue Dragons defeat No. 2 Snow College 29-27 in the NJCAA Championship Game on June 5 in Little Rock, Arkansas.Torrence had a huge second-quarter interception in the championship game when the Blue Dragons were trailing 14-3. For the game, Torrence had three total tackles and the interception in the championship contest.Torrence didn’t post the huge overall numbers one might associate with this honor. His numbers simply don’t tell the entire story of Torrence’s tremendous sophomore season, but they do speak volumes to the respect opposing teams gave him throughout the 2020-21 season.Torrence had 26 total tackles in eight games started this season. Torrence broke up five passes with one interception During the regular season, Torrence was hardly targeted over the final five games of the regular season, thus cutting the field in half for opposing offenses.Torrence is the third Blue Dragon to originally sign with the Seahawks, joining Claude George (2013-14, UDFA in 2017) and B.J. Emmons (2017, UDFA, 2020).TRAMEL WALTHOUR – Baltimore RavensWalthour played one season for the Blue Dragons in 2018 where he garnered 16 total tackles and a quarterback sack in 10 games for Hutchinson.Walthour spent five seasons at the University of Georgia. He played in 13 games last season while starting in five of them. He finished his career with 49 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and 2 sacks. He helped the Bulldogs win back-to-back national titles throughout his career.Walthouer is the fourth Blue Dragon to start his career in the Ravens’ organization. The others are Phil Hawkins (2001, UDFA 2024); Meshak Williams (2009-10, UDFA 2013) and Jonathan White (2019, UDFA 2023).RODNEY MATTHEWS – Green Bay PackersMatthews was a defensive tackle for the Blue Dragons in the 2019 seasons, where he earned all-Jayhawk Conference honors. Matthews played in 10 games for the Blue Dragons had had 19 total tackles with 2.5 quarterback sacks and 5.5 tackles for loss as a Blue Dragon.Matthews moved on to Ohio University where he played in 41 games. Matthews had 71 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss and three sacks. He snagged his first career interception during Ohio's historic victory over the Iowa State Cyclones (Sept. 16, 2023).&nbsp;Matthews joins a long just of former Blue Dragons to start with the Packers. The others are Kevin Barry (1997-98, UDFA 2002), Angelo Pease (2011, UDFA 2013), Caliph Brice (2017-18, UDFA 2021); Devonte Wyatt (2019; 1st-round 2022).ISAIAH ITON – Tennessee TitansIton never played a game for the Blue Dragons but was with the team in the fall of 2020, the Covid pandemic season. After taking care of his course work at HutchCC, Iton transferred to the University of Mississippi and ultimately to Rutgers University for the 2023 season.Iton started all 13 games last season after transferring from Ole Miss. He had 38 tackles and one sack.Iton is the third Blue Dragon to start his professional career with the Titans, joining Jason Gamble (1994-95, UDFA in 1997) and Toby Johnson (2012-13, UDFA in 2015).

🏈 Four former Dragons sign NFL UDFAs

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College has announced that Katie Ponce has been selected as the 2023-2024 Wes Christopher Ambassador of the Year.

Katie is a 2022 graduate of Macksville High School. In addition to serving as an Ambassador, Katie is also a Leadership Scholar. She is currently majoring in Pre-Pharmacy at HutchCC and will be returning for the 2024-2025 school year.

The Ambassador group, comprised of HutchCC students from all areas of the college, assists the Admissions Office with recruitment activities. They provide campus tours to prospective students and their families, help with on-campus recruitment events, and contact future students to provide information about the College. The Ambassadors are led by HutchCC Admissions Office staff members Lynnette Hilty, Assistant Director of Admissions, and BreAnne Edwards, Campus Visit Coordinator.

The Wes Christopher Ambassador of the Year Award is named in honor of Wes Christopher, a 2002 graduate of HutchCC and former Ambassador who passed away in 2005 as the result of a motorcycle accident.

For more information on Hutchinson Community College, visit the college website at <a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu">www.hutchcc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714405678667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Community CollegeHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College has announced that Katie Ponce has been selected as the 2023-2024 Wes Christopher Ambassador of the Year.Katie is a 2022 graduate of Macksville High School. In addition to serving as an Ambassador, Katie is also a Leadership Scholar. She is currently majoring in Pre-Pharmacy at HutchCC and will be returning for the 2024-2025 school year.The Ambassador group, comprised of HutchCC students from all areas of the college, assists the Admissions Office with recruitment activities. They provide campus tours to prospective students and their families, help with on-campus recruitment events, and contact future students to provide information about the College. The Ambassadors are led by HutchCC Admissions Office staff members Lynnette Hilty, Assistant Director of Admissions, and BreAnne Edwards, Campus Visit Coordinator.The Wes Christopher Ambassador of the Year Award is named in honor of Wes Christopher, a 2002 graduate of HutchCC and former Ambassador who passed away in 2005 as the result of a motorcycle accident.For more information on Hutchinson Community College, visit the college website at <a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu">www.hutchcc.edu</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;